Sea otter bones can turn purple

Scientists discovered that sea otter bones can change color to purple under certain conditions, a phenomenon tied to the presence of specific bacteria that affect bone coloration. This finding is significant for both paleontology and conservation efforts, as it provides new insights into the interactions between marine life and microbial ecosystems. The purple hue could also help researchers track the health of sea otter populations and their habitats, offering a unique lens into the ecological dynamics of coastal environments.